City Council

1 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 25, 2025 REGULAR MEETING A Regular Meeting of the City Council was held in-person on Thursday, September 25, 2025 at 7:00 PM for the purpose of transacting any and all business. Notice of this meeting was posted on September 23, 2025 at 1:35 PM. This meeting is being recorded and is live on S.A.T.V. and Zoom unless technological issues interrupt the transmission. All Councilors were present. Council President Prosniewski presided. Councilor Cohen moved to dispense with the reading of the record of the previous meeting. It was so voted. President Prosniewski requested that everyone please rise to recite the Pledge of Allegiance. Salem City Council Land Acknowledgement The Salem City Council honors that this land is Naumkeag, or fishing place, where generation of Naumkeag people from the Pawtucket band of the Massachusett Tribe lived and passed through for centuries. We acknowledge that this is unceded Indigenous land and also acknowledge the Massachusett Tribe, who continue to honor and hold this land into the present. Salem's City Council is committed to having ongoing meaningful dialogue with the indigenous peoples who have presence in Salem in order to dismantle the legacies of oppression and inequities that persist today. PUBLIC TESTIMONY 1. Ella Prabhakar, - Supports Higher Education Resolution 2. Henry Morgan – Supports Higher Education Resolution 3. Nicholas Jones – Supports Higher Education Resolution 4. Bret Seferian – Supports Higher Education Resolution 5. Joanna Gonsalves – Supports Higher Education Resolution 6. Thomas Pineros Shields – Supports Higher Education Resolution 7. Ann Friedgen – Requests Veronica Miranda not be reappointed to SHA tenant assoc. board for certain reasons 8. Catherine Gahey – Supports Higher Education Resolution 2 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 25, 2025 REGULAR MEETING (#423) – MAYORS APPOINTMENTS OF THE FOLLOWING Held from the last meeting, the Mayors Appointments of the following with terms to expire were confirmed by a roll call vote of 11 yeas, 0 nays and 0 absent. Dr. Larry Broisman 59 Brittania Cir Comm. on Disabilities September 11, 2028 Alexis Lambert 7 English St. Comm. On Disabilities January 13, 2028 Nate Berkowtiz 22 Friend St. Food Policy Council November 17, 2026 Manchester MA Allie Carufel 83 Essex St. Food Policy Council September 14, 2026 Madison Tetens 28 Goodhue St. Food Policy Council September 11, 2028 Colby Bomberowitz 105 Federal St. Race Equity Comm. September 11, 2028 Dr. Vanita Naidoo 254 Lafayette St. Race Equity Comm. September 11, 2028 Dr. Melanie 359 Essex St. Race Equity Comm. September 11, 2028 Sonsteng-Person Dayton Marchese 74 Boston St. Conservation Comm. March 28, 2027 Ryan Macione 2 Lee St. Redevelopment Authority April 13, 2027 Megan Gonzales 34 Moffatt Rd Scholarship & Education September 11, 2028 Kevin Rice 25 Oakland St. Sustainability, Energy & September 9, 2027 Resiliency Comm. Councillor Varela requested and received suspension of the rules to allow the appointees to address the Council. (#422) – MAYOR’S RE-APPOINTMENTS OF THE FOLLOWING Held from the last meeting, the Mayor's Re-Appointment of the following with terms to expire. Councillor Jerzylo made a motion to divide the question to remove Veronica Miranda from the list of reappointments to vote separately. She stated after hearing from the person from the public we should split the question. Councillor Watson-Felt stated maybe additional tenant representation can be added but not comfortable splitting the question. Councillor Davis stated that Veronica Miranda is an outstanding member; however, it is not an unreasonable request to get a response back when applying.  3 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 25, 2025 REGULAR MEETING Councillor Cohen stated that Ann is a constituent of his. There is going to be an opening on the board next month. Veronica has fought hard for her tenants. He hopes she will be voted again as Chair. Councillor Harvey agrees with Councillor Watson-Felt. We do need someone on the board to represent the seniors and hope the next person appointed will be that. There was no second to Councillor Jeryzlo’s motion to divide the question. The following reappointments were confirmed by a roll call vote of 10 yeas, 1 nay and 0 absent. Councillor Jerzylo was recorded in the negative. Name Board/Commission Address Term Term Expire Length Susan Yochelson Tree Commission 5 Eden Street #1 3 years 9/11/2028 Rachel McCarter Tree Commission 17 Forest Avenue #7 3 years 9/11/2028 Paul L’Heureux Tree Commission 24 Lafayette Place 3 years 9/11/2028 Alexandra Ramos Race Equity 4 First Street #6306 3 years 9/14/2028 Commission Rosa Alvarado Race Equity 22 Boston Street #2 3 years 9/14/2028 Commission Jeff Swartz Transportation 65 Washington Street 3 years 9/28/2028 Commission #312 John Wathne Bicycling and 34 Boardman Street 3 years 9/14/2028 Shared Path Advisory Committee Veronica Miranda Salem Housing 64 Rainbow Terrace 5 years September 11 Authority Board 2030 (tenant rep) #458 – APPOINTMENT OF ALEX SANCHEZ TO PARK & RECREATION The Mayor's Appointment of Alex Sanchez of 414 Essex St. to the Parks and Recreation Commission with a term to expire May 14, 2029 was held under the rules. #459 – APPOINTMENTS TO THE HUMAN RIGHTS COALITION & CULTURAL COUNCIL The Mayor’s appointments of Alan Hanscom to the Salem Human Rights Coalition and Steven Feldmann to the Cultural Council were received and filed (Informational purposes only) 4 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 25, 2025 REGULAR MEETING #460 – BOND ORDER IN THE AMOUNT OF $3,618, 491.00 FOR BATES SCHOOL ROOF The following Bond Order submitted by the Mayor was adopted for first passage by a roll call vote of 11 yeas, 0 nays and 0 absent under suspension of the rules. ORDERED: That the City hereby appropriates Three Million Six Hundred Eighteen Thousand Four Hundred Ninety-One Dollars ($3,618,491.00) to pay costs of designing and replacing the roof at the Bates Elementary School located at 53 Liberty Hill Ave, Salem, Massachusetts, including all costs incidental or related thereto (the "Project"), which proposed repair project would materially extend the useful life of the school and preserve an asset that otherwise is capable of supporting the required educational programs, and for which the City may be eligible for a grant from the Massachusetts School Building Authority (the "MSBA"), said amount to be expended under the direction of the School Building Committee; that to meet this appropriation the Treasurer, with the approval of the Mayor, is authorized to borrow said amount pursuant to G.L. c. 44 or c.70B, or pursuant to any other enabling authority, and to issue bonds or notes of the City therefor; that the City acknowledges that the MSBA's grant program is a non-entitlement, discretionary program based on need, as determined by the MSBA, and any project costs the City incurs in excess of any grant approved by and received from the MSBA shall be the sole responsibility of the City; and that the amount of borrowing authorized by this vote shall be reduced by any grant amount set forth in the Project Funding Agreement that may be executed between the City and the MSBA. FURTHER ORDERED, that the Mayor and the Treasurer are each authorized to file an application to qualify under Chapter 44A of the Massachusetts General Laws any and all bonds of the City issued under and pursuant hereto, and to provide such information and execute such documents as may be required in connection therewith This is needed to be accepted into the accelerated repair program by October 22nd. The total cost is $36M and $25M will be reimbursed. The School roof is over 25 years old. #461 – DONATION FOR FOREST RIVER BENCH The Following order submitted by the Mayor was adopted. Order: To accept donation from Yuans Bistro Inc. DBA Fantasy Island in the amount of $1,200.00 for a Forest River Park bench donation.  5 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 25, 2025 REGULAR MEETING #462 – ZONING ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 7 – SPECIAL RESIDENTIAL REGULATIONS – SMART GROWTH OVERLAY SUBDISTRICT – MARGIN, ENDICOTT AND HIGH STREET The following Zoning Ordinance submitted by the Mayor was referred to the Planning Board to hold a Joint Public hearing. An Ordinance to amend a Zoning Ordinance by adding the following new section to Chapter 7, Special Residential Regulations - Smart Growth Overlay SubDistrict - Margin, Endicott and High Street (The complete text can be viewed at the City Clerk's office, 93 Washington Street, Salem during normal business hours) #463 – RESOLUTION – CITY COUNCIL HIGHER EDUCATION FUNDING The following Resolution introduced by Councillor Cohen was adopted as amended by a roll call vote of 11 yeas, 0 nays and 0 absent. The amendments included removing the word “State” from Salem State City Council to the last four paragraphs before the last paragraph and adding the Senate Committee on Economic Development to the last line of the last paragraph. Original Resolution: RESOLUTION: City Council Higher Education Funding Resolution Whereas, Community colleges, state universities and the UMass system play an integral role in fostering the public good in Massachusetts; Whereas, Public colleges and universities provide the necessary education and career training to allow for social and economic mobility necessary for ensuring greater equality among our residents; Whereas, Public colleges and universities across the state are major employers, and the students attending public colleges and universities generate significant economic activity; Whereas, Public education provides a highly trained and highly educated workforce for Massachusetts-based businesses and industries; Whereas, Salem State University faculty, staff, and students engage in work to improve North Shore residents’ quality of life through community-based research and outreach, including the North Shore Policy Lab, Center for Economic Development and Sustainability and historical research as part of Salem’s 400+ anniversary; Whereas, Salem State University is the Commonwealth’s civic engagement university and an emerging Hispanic Serving Institution and Minority Serving Institution; Whereas, Public colleges and universities are experiencing severe disruptions in funding as federal grants that pay for research are being paused and canceled; 6 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 25, 2025 REGULAR MEETING Whereas, public funds facilitate research centers at public colleges and universities on the public good, serve artistic and humanitarian ends and produce regional economic benefits; Whereas, the State of Massachusetts have a responsibility to ensure costs to public higher education are not prohibitive or require students to take on debilitating debt; Whereas, Despite recent state financial aid programs, tuition and fees continue to rise, yet the federal government has passed severe reductions in Pell Grant funding that underprivileged students rely on; Whereas, student debt creates a barrier that significantly hinders Salem State alumni from starting families, achieving life goals and reaching financial stability; Whereas, Graduates saddled with student debt can do even less to support their community economically, socially, or culturally, with students trapped under high levels of debt reporting less home ownership, careers in public service and entrepreneurship; Whereas, Massachusetts voters approved the Fair Share surtax on income above $1 million to generate revenue specifically for public education and transportation; Whereas, Governor Healey proposed reserving $200 million of Fair Share amendment funds to benefit public colleges and universities; Therefore, be it resolved that the Salem State City Council voices its strong support for Massachusetts’ community colleges, state universities, and UMass campuses; Therefore, be it resolved that the Salem State City Council urges the state Legislature to set aside $200 million from the more than $2 billion generated by the Fair Share as a first step toward stabilizing public higher education funding that supports students, faculty, and staff; Therefore, be it resolved that the Salem State City Council urges the state Legislature and governor to strategically increase funding for public colleges and universities to lessen their reliance on grants, privatization, and student tuition and fees; Therefore, be it resolved that the Salem State City Council supports the public colleges and universities so that students can attend without incurring unnecessary debt; Therefore, be it resolved that the Salem State City Council encourages the state Legislature to provide the salaries and benefits necessary to retain and attract the faculty and staff needed to maintain the quality of education our state deserves; Therefore, be it further resolved that the Clerk of the City Council sends this resolution to Governor Maura Healey, Lt. Governor Kim Dricoll, Senate President Karen Spilka, House Speaker Ronald Mariano, Senator Joan Lovely, Representative Manny Cruz, the Ways and Means Committee, the Joint Committee on Higher Education and the Board of Higher Education.  7 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 25, 2025 REGULAR MEETING Amended Resolution: RESOLUTION: City Council Higher Education Funding Resolution Whereas, Community colleges, state universities and the UMass system play an integral role in fostering the public good in Massachusetts; Whereas, Public colleges and universities provide the necessary education and career training to allow for social and economic mobility necessary for ensuring greater equality among our residents; Whereas, Public colleges and universities across the state are major employers, and the students attending public colleges and universities generate significant economic activity; Whereas, Public education provides a highly trained and highly educated workforce for Massachusetts-based businesses and industries; Whereas, Salem State University faculty, staff, and students engage in work to improve North Shore residents’ quality of life through community-based research and outreach, including the North Shore Policy Lab, Center for Economic Development and Sustainability and historical research as part of Salem’s 400+ anniversary; Whereas, Salem State University is the Commonwealth’s civic engagement university and an emerging Hispanic Serving Institution and Minority Serving Institution; Whereas, Public colleges and universities are experiencing severe disruptions in funding as federal grants that pay for research are being paused and canceled; Whereas, public funds facilitate research centers at public colleges and universities on the public good, serve artistic and humanitarian ends and produce regional economic benefits; Whereas, the State of Massachusetts have a responsibility to ensure costs to public higher education are not prohibitive or require students to take on debilitating debt; Whereas, Despite recent state financial aid programs, tuition and fees continue to rise, yet the federal government has passed severe reductions in Pell Grant funding that underprivileged students rely on; Whereas, student debt creates a barrier that significantly hinders Salem State alumni from starting families, achieving life goals and reaching financial stability; Whereas, Graduates saddled with student debt can do even less to support their community economically, socially, or culturally, with students trapped under high levels of debt reporting less home ownership, careers in public service and entrepreneurship; Whereas, Massachusetts voters approved the Fair Share surtax on income above $1 million to generate revenue specifically for public education and transportation; Whereas, Governor Healey proposed reserving $200 million of Fair Share amendment funds to benefit public colleges and universities; 8 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 25, 2025 REGULAR MEETING Therefore, be it resolved that the Salem City Council voices its strong support for Massachusetts’ community colleges, state universities, and UMass campuses; Therefore, be it resolved that the Salem City Council urges the state Legislature to set aside $200 million from the more than $2 billion generated by the Fair Share as a first step toward stabilizing public higher education funding that supports students, faculty, and staff; Therefore, be it resolved that the Salem City Council urges the state Legislature and governor to strategically increase funding for public colleges and universities to lessen their reliance on grants, privatization, and student tuition and fees; Therefore, be it resolved that the Salem City Council supports the public colleges and universities so that students can attend without incurring unnecessary debt; Therefore, be it resolved that the Salem State City Council encourages the state Legislature to provide the salaries and benefits necessary to retain and attract the faculty and staff needed to maintain the quality of education our state deserves; Therefore, be it further resolved that the Clerk of the City Council sends this resolution to Governor Maura Healey, Lt. Governor Kim Dricoll, Senate President Karen Spilka, House Speaker Ronald Mariano, Senator Joan Lovely, Representative Manny Cruz, the Ways and Means Committee, the Joint Committee on Higher Education, the Board of Higher Education and the Senate Committee on Economic Development. #464 – MONTHLY FINANCIAL REPORTS DATED JANUARY 2025 – APRIL 2025 The following order introduced by Councillor Merkl be adopted. ORDERED: That the monthly financial reports dated January 2025 - April 2025 be received and filed. (reports can be viewed in the City Clerk's office during normal business hours) #465 – ORDINANCE TO AMEND CH. 40 SEC. 30 RELATIVE TO PUBLIC GUIDES PROHIBITIONS – HOWARD STREET The following ordinance introduced by Councillor Hapworth was adopted for first passage and referred to the Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs co-posted with the Committee of the Whole. In the year Two Thousand and Twenty-five An Ordinance to amend an Ordinance relative to Chapter 40, Section 30-Public Guides Prohibitions Be it ordained by the City Council of the City of Salem, as follows:  9 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 25, 2025 REGULAR MEETING Section I. Amend Section 40-30 Prohibitions by adding the following: (13) Stop or assemble a tour group for the purpose of delivering narration, storytelling, or other programmatic content on Howard Street. Tour groups may traverse Howard Street in the course of a tour but may only stop at the grassy area along Bridge Street at the base of Howard Street (within the Old Salem Jail lot) for narration, provided the group does not obstruct pedestrian or vehicular passage and remains within the designated green space. Section II. This Ordinance shall take effect as provided by City Charter. Councillor Morsillo asked doesn’t the tour guide ordinance already specify that they need to be on a sidewalk and off the street when they're doing their narration or their storytelling. Councillor Hapworth replied - It does but Howard Street does not a functional sidewalk for people to walk down. It's designated as a shared street, and they're giving their tours in the middle, so this ordinance at least clarifies that those tours that stopping need to walk down the street to the end, and then give it. Councillor Morsillo followed up with if the current ordinance needs to be enforced because tours are also going down Bott's Court, which also doesn't have a functional sidewalk. I don't know if they're stopping along the way because I just see them coming out. And so, if we have an ordinance that says that you need to be on a sidewalk. There may be other streets. We should not be doing this piecemeal. Councillor Watson-Felt agreed with Councillor Morsillo but there is an urgency with Howard St. Tours go down there because of the cemetery, and the street is dark and cars are driving down it. We should support Howard Street tonight for first passage and work with the Solicitor on an ordinance regarding streets without sidewalks i.e., Charter Street to clarify language and make other amendments. Councillor Jerzylo stated she would support Howard Street tonight. She is working with the City Solicitor, the City Clerk and the Assistant City Clerk on amending a few things in the tour guide, ordinance. I agree, the other night, coming into the back door at City Hall, it was totally blocked by at least 40 tourists on a tour, and I had to ask at least 3 times, excuse me, to get into the door. The tour guide saw me trying to get into the back door but didn't say anything to the group. So, we can add it to the list while we're talking about the other issues in the ordinance. Councillor Merkl will support Howard Street tonight due to the logistics and the end of the street is a perfect spot to gather. 10 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 25, 2025 REGULAR MEETING Councillor Stott stated she is not familiar with the particular Howard Street situation but is taking two takeaways from this evening. By allowing cars to park on the street, they're taking over the sidewalk, so that seems odd to me. And the second takeaway is I'm very curious how the new public guide guidelines that we put in place this year as part of their safety training is doing. We also increased public guide fees, so there would be additional enforcement, how is that going? I will support this tonight, but it does sound piecemeal, but we should have a larger discussion. Councillor Hapworth stated 5-6 years ago Howard Street was reconstructed to make it accessible. There were conversations with city staff about what to do around, ensuring accessibility and ensuring accessible sidewalks. The decision was made to make it designated as a shared street, at least via signage and to allow the residents on that street to continue to park on that street. This tourist season Howard Street is presenting itself as a more urgent issue because more people are going down there. They’re allowed to use the public space. Councillor Stott made a motion to adopt for first passage and refer to the Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs co-posted with the Committee of the Whole with the condition that the committee meet between first and second passage. Councillor Varela seconded the motion. It was so voted. #466 – ORDINANCE TO AMEND TRAFFIC CH. 42 SEC. 75A – RESIDENT STICKER PARKING MONTH OF OCTOBER The following ordinance introduced by Councillor Watson-Felt was referred to the Committee on Ordinances, Licenses, and Legal Affairs co-posted with the Committee of the Whole (late file) In the Year Two Thousand and Twenty-Five An Ordinance to amend and Ordinance relative to Traffic – Ch. 42 Sec. 75A – Parking prohibitions towing zone Be it ordained by the City Council of the City of Salem, as follows Section I. To amend Sec. 75A. Parking prohibitions towing zone (October resident parking) as follows: By deleting Sec. 75A. Parking prohibitions towing zone (October resident parking) and replacing with Sec. 75A. Parking prohibitions towing zone (Fall resident parking) by deleting in all Subsections “October resident parking” and replacing with “(Fall Resident Parking)”; and by deleting in all sections “Temporary October Resident Permit Parking” and replacing with “Temporary Fall Resident Permit Parking; and  11 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 25, 2025 REGULAR MEETING by deleting from the Subsection A, first paragraph, first sentence “October 1” and replacing with “the third Friday in September” ; and by deleting from Subsection A, first paragraph “Saturday through Sunday, October 1” and replacing with “Saturday through Sunday, beginning the third Friday in September”; and by deleting in the Subsection A, second paragraph “October 1” and replacing with “the third Friday in September” ; and by deleting in Subsection B “during the month of October” and replacing with “beginning the third Friday in September through November 1”; and by deleting in Subsection C “for the month of October” and replacing with “for the period beginning the third Friday in September through November 1” Section II. This Ordinance shall take effect as provided by City Charter. #467 – (#437 of 2023, #66 of 2024 & #88 of 2024) – NO TURN ON RED Councillor Hapworth offered the following report for the Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs co-posted with the Committee of the Whole. It was voted to accept the report. The Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs co-posted with the Committee of the Whole to whom was referred the matter of No Turn on Red has considered said matter and would recommend adoption for First Passage as amended. Councillor Hapworth stated there are two amendments that are minor to correct names of streets. We need to replace West Street with West Avenue and Jefferson Street with Jefferson Avenue. And Councillor Cohen made two amendments in his ward. One was on Washington Street at the intersection with New Derby Street and Norman Street. At the end, after the word, New Derby Street, the amendment is to add “eastbound Norman Street to southbound Washington Street”, right turn prohibited. The other amendment on Washington Street at the intersection with Canal Street and Mill Street, is to delete the words after eastbound Washington Street “ from westbound Washington Street to northbound Washington Street”. All the above amendments were adopted. Councillor Jerzylo made a motion to take out Congress St. at Derby St. She feels it poses more of a safety issue. If people can't, take a right on red, the traffic backs up all the way to Harbor Street and cars are starting to cut through Pickering Wharf. Something else can be done to make the sightline safer like removing parking spots on the corner. Councillor Varela seconded the motion. 12 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 25, 2025 REGULAR MEETING Councillor Morsillo will not vote for this. There was just an incident on Saturday. There were pedestrians on every single corner. It’s about pedestrian safety. Councillor Merkl will not support this. Councillor Harvey will support this. He understands traffic calming measures, but this will cause more traffic and more frustrations and create more gridlock in a city that already has a lot of traffic and bump outs. Difficult for first responders and their response time. We asked for data and the date show that there are no accidents due from turning right on red. The professionals are telling us it's not necessary, and it just keeps getting brought up and all it's doing is creating more traffic. Councillor Prosniewski this was brought in 4 years ago by Councillor Morsillo. She asked for facts. No accidents were caused by right turn on red. Why justify 26 No Turn on Red. The City Council is not made up of Traffic Engineers. This will make congestion worse and sit idle at empty intersections undermining environmental and quality of life issues. Other issues are enforceability. We should encourage the State to allow red camera lights. This would directly address violations that put our public at risk without punishing responsible drivers or creating unnecessary gridlock. Let's make a decision based on evidence. And let's pursue solutions that actually improve safety without making traffic worse. Councillor Merkl stated data doesn’t tell the whole story – people do. There have been many close calls. She herself witnesses close calls since she lives downtown. Councillor Davis states pedestrian safety is most important. Sorry if people have to wait in traffic. People need to feel safe. Agree data doesn’t tell the whole story. Councillor Morsillo stated her goal when introducing this a few years ago was public safety. Where there is right on red is allowed, drivers approach the intersections, roll through a red light while looking to the left in the direction of oncoming traffic not seeing what is happening to the right, and even ahead until it's too late. There are plenty of stories from people right here in Salem that have experienced cars not stopping for pedestrians and crosswalks. When studying each intersection and whether a right-on-red would be allowed many factors were considered. Crash data and injuries, including deaths, geometry of the intersection, and sight lines. While drivers are trying to get somewhere as quickly as possible, pedestrians are trying to get somewhere safely. Whenever discussing pedestrian safety with others. The argument always turns to pedestrians who cross outside of the crosswalk or cross while looking at their phone. I will counter right now that the number of drivers with their phone in their hand looking at messages, even texting, is more than half. Stand at any intersection and look at the drivers. The bottom line is that crosswalks do not assure any safety right now. We need every tool we can get to bring safety back. Drivers insist on taking their right on red regardless of how many are trying to cross with the crosswalk light. Please don't wait for someone to die before pushing for changes that will make our streets safer.  13 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 25, 2025 REGULAR MEETING We still would not have the new traffic light and safety improvements at Wilson and Jefferson Ave if it weren't for her tragic death and my insistence that the money be found for the new light immediately. I don't want to lose any more pedestrians due to insufficient safety measures, especially when we know there are issues. Councillor Jerzylo agrees with many of the No Turn on Red but this one at Congress and Derby causes more traffic and backs it up to Harbor street which causes more safety issues in Pickering Wharf. Councillor Cohen stated he was the liaison to the Transportation Committee the first year this was there, and I have Lafayette Street, which is the second most traveled road after Highland Ave. And the biggest complaints I get are people drive either too fast or too slow. No one is ever going the right speed. We are a complete street city. That means there are people who are trying to make street safer - zero accidents i.e., narrowing of the roads. It’s impossible to enforce all this. It’s about drivers who do not stop on a right turn on red, which is a requirement. I believe that the actual fix, which we can't do now is video enforcement. Some other issues are that people walk on streets because there are no sidewalks and some streets are dark, and people can’t see pedestrians. Councillor Stott mentioned how there were comments made about how we're doing broad brush strokes and change, that is 100% the opposite of what happened during this process. Councillor Hapworth moved for a five-minute recess to discuss whether the Council can move forward without a recommendation from Police Traffic. It was so voted. The Council is back in session on the record. There was a discussion about whether or not we could vote on first passage without the input from the Police Traffic Division. If we can adopt for first passage and then wait for the recommendation because I'm not sure whether it's a rules violation or not, but we are voting on Councillor Jerzlo's amendment to remove the right on red at Derby and Congress Street. On the motion from Councillor Jerzylo to remove the intersection of Congress and Derby Street a roll call vote was requested by seeing three hands. The motion did not pass by a roll call vote of 3 yeas, 8 nays and 0 absent. Councillors Jerzylo, Harvey and Prosniewski were recorded in the affirmative and Councillors, Watson-Felt, Varela, Stott, Morsillo, Merkl, Hapworth, Davis, and Cohen were recorded opposed. The matter did not carry. The City Clerk explained that the City Council rule 30A – Ordinances relative to traffic regulations to contain police traffic department recommendation. “Every ordinance relative to traffic regulations, shall upon its introduction into the City Council, contain a recommendation of the Salem Police Traffic Department. The Police Department’s recommendation should be voiced by the Ward Councillor on the floor. However, the Council can use Sec. 3 3of their rules to suspend rule 30A unless there is an objection. 14 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 25, 2025 REGULAR MEETING Councillor Prosniewski objected to suspending the rule. He stated he’s the President of the Council and he wants to make sure everything is done correctly. We can wait two weeks to do it by the book and have a recommendation from the police department and have it done properly. Councillor Watson- Felt – With all due respect, President Prosniewski, we can move forward as a governing body legally tonight by suspending the rules for first passage and then get the recommendation from the police department before second passage. This thing has been 4 years in the making, and we joke that we can wait 2 more weeks, but the reality is, there is an urgency here. There are five more meetings before this council is done, and I'm very frustrated. Councillor Prosniewski stated a member has objected; we need to move on to the next agenda item. #468 – (#378) – UPDATE ON SALEM HIGH SCHOOL BUILDING PROJECT Councillor Prosniewski offered the following report for the Committee of the Whole. It was voted to accept the report and adopt the recommendation. The Committee of the Whole to whom it was referred the matter of Receiving an update on Salem High School Building Project has considered said matter and would recommend that the presentation be received and placed on filed. Councillor Stott stated we weren’t able to get into the weeds of the project, but you can learn about the project and ask questions. We have been out tabling at city events. With building a new school we will receive state funding for 45-60% of the project. If we were to repair it, we would be responsible for 100%. #469 – (#207, #289, #469A & #469B) – CREATING A CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER USE POLICY AND REVIEW CH. 2 SEC. 10 – USE OF CHAMBERS Councillor Varela offered the following report for the Committee on Government Services co-posted with the Committee of the Whole. It was voted to accept the report and adopt the recommendation. The Committee on Government Services co-posted with the Committee of the Whole to whom it was referred the matter of Creating a Policy Concerning City Council Chambers and reviewing Ch. 2 Sec. 10 – Use of Chambers has considered said matter and would recommend adoption for first passage the attached ordinance to amend an ordinance relative to Ch. 2 Sec. 10 – Use of Chambers and adoption of the attached Order creating a City Council Chamber Use Policy.  15 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 25, 2025 REGULAR MEETING (469A) - Ordinance Amending Ch. 2 Sec. 10 – Use of Council Chamber In the year Two Thousand and Twenty-Five An ordinance to amend an ordinance relative to Chapter 2 Section 10 – Use of Council Chamber Be it ordained by the City Council of the City of Salem, as follows: Section 1. Chapter 2, Sec. 2-10. - Use of council chamber is hereby amended by deleting this section “No person shall use the council chamber and council (subcommittee) anteroom in the city hall without the permission of the city council. This authority may be delegated to the city clerk.” and replacing it with – “Use of the council chamber in the city hall shall be subject to the policy established on September 25, 2025 by city council order, as may be amended from time to time by the city council. At all times, access to the council chamber shall be fully compliant with the American with Disabilities act. Permission to use the council (subcommittee) anteroom outside of times scheduled for meetings of the city council or its subcommittees shall be delegated to the city clerk.” Section 2. This ordinance shall take effect as provided by City Charter. #469B – City Council Chambers Allowable Uses and Usage Policy ORDERED: that the Salem City Council hereby adopts the following Policy in accordance with City Ordinance CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS ALLOWABLE USES AND USAGE POLICY The City Council Chambers is a public room, primarily used for the business of the City Council. Given its location within City Hall, all uses of the room must be accessible to the public. Private or commercial uses are not permitted in City Council Chambers without majority approval of the City Council. Permission to use the Council Chambers does not constitute a sponsorship or an endorsement by the City of the group or organization’s policies or beliefs. All press releases, publicity, or advertisements relating to any program, event or meeting held in the Council Chambers shall clearly state the name of the sponsoring group or organization and shall include a disclaimer that the program, event or meeting is not sponsored or endorsed by the City unless the City has agreed to co-sponsorship. 16 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 25, 2025 REGULAR MEETING ALLOWABLE USES The allowable uses for the City Council Chamber are as follows: The primary purpose of the City Council Chambers is for the official work of the Salem City Council. All other uses are secondary to City Council business. • Other allowed uses for the Chambers when not in conflict with City Council business: 1. Events or other meetings approved by the office of the Mayor, including but not limited to: Flag Raising Speaking Events, Presentation of Proclamations or other official documents, and hosting visiting dignitaries or organizations. 2. Election Department pre-election and election day overflow work, requested by the Assistant Clerk of Elections 3. Public Safety swearing-in or special citation ceremonies, requested by the Police Chief or Fire Chief 4. City Staff celebrations and events requested by Human Resources Director or Mayor. 5. Weddings: performed by a Salem City Clerk’s Office Justice of the Peace, see additional policy endorsed by the City Council. Weddings should not exceed 30 minutes in time, with at least 15 minutes in between each scheduled wedding. If two or more events are requested at the same date and time, the City Clerk shall work with the requesting parties to resolve the scheduling conflicts, to the extent possible and agreeable to all parties, but shall make the final scheduling decision taking into consideration the priorities outlined above. Any other requested use for public events not covered by this policy shall be brought to the City Council for approval. PROCEDURES FOR SCHEDULING Scheduling the use of the City Council Chambers 1. All requests to use the City Council Chambers must be submitted to the City Clerk in a manner established by the Clerk 2. Reservation of the Council Chambers must be made at least two weeks in advance. 3. The Council Chambers may be booked up to two months in advance. However, the City reserves the right to ‘bump’ organizations scheduled far in advance if the Chambers are needed for urgent unscheduled or emergency City business on the same day. The City shall make every effort to notify the scheduled user promptly of such conflicts, and to reschedule the event to a mutually agreeable date and time.  17 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 25, 2025 REGULAR MEETING RULES FOR USE OF THE CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER • The City Council Chambers shall be generally available for use during regular business hours for City Hall, which are Monday through Wednesday between the hours of 8:00 am – 4:00 pm, Thursday between the hours of 8:00 am – 6:00 pm and Friday between the hours of 8:00 am – Noon. • The Chambers are not generally available for use on recognized City Holidays and weekends. Requests to use the City Council Chamber after regular business hours shall require a City staff member to be present. The requesting party (“applicant”) shall be responsible for associated costs, including but not limited to personnel overtime, for any use beyond the City’s regular business hours. • Use of the Council Chambers by any individual, group, or organization except a City related entity shall be limited to two separate events within a twelve-month period • Any program, meeting or event held in the Council Chambers shall not disrupt the routine procedures of the City Hall offices. If disruption occurs, the requesting City staff shall notify the applicant and work with them to resolve the disruption. • Access from the Mayor’s suite of offices to the departments and bathrooms on the other side of the Chambers must be kept clear of furniture, props, decorations, or anything that will impede accessibility as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines and Standards. • City Clerk or Mayor’s office staff, depending on which department is responsible for the event, shall review and inspect the Chambers shortly before the event or meeting takes place to ensure accessibility. Applicants agree to abide by the City’s recommendations for accessibility modifications. • All displays and brochures for the meeting or event shall be contained within the Council Chambers. Tables within the Chambers may be used to display fliers or other materials. Under no circumstances shall any materials be attached in any manner to painted walls, windows, furniture, or the ceiling. Tables and desks may not be moved without consultation with the City Clerk. If food or beverages are to be served, tables must be covered. All trash shall be removed. • City-owned audio/visual equipment shall not be used without permission of the City Clerk. • Alcoholic beverages and drugs of any kind are not allowed in the Council Chambers. • The City Council reserves the right to refuse or revoke permission to use the Council Chambers when a proposed or scheduled event conflicts with this policy, • In implementing this policy and in utilizing the Council Chambers, the City and any sponsoring group or organization granted permission to use the Chambers shall not discriminate based on age, ancestry, color, disability, family status, gender identity or expression, military status, marital status, national origin, race, religion, source of income, housing status, sex or sexual orientation. 18 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 25, 2025 REGULAR MEETING Councill Varela explained that City Solicitor Beth Renard drafted the language that would be very specific in what's allowed uses everything down to, private and commercial uses that are not permitted, without the majority of city council approval. I do have to say that, unfortunately, our city clerk was not able to be at the meeting because it was a preliminary election night. The City Clerk did have a few questions when it comes to private uses that are not permitted by City Council without the majority of approval what is the procedure for that? Will it be the same as a petitions going o the agenda now, will the city clerk ask and request Councillors to weigh in on this, or we have to set a meeting because we are a body and should vote on this? Councillor Stott stated the current ordinance says no person shall use the Council Chambers and Council Subcommittee anteroom in the City Hall without the permission of the City Council. This authority may be delegated to the City Clerk. That's our current language. The recommendation is to replace it with, the use of the Council Chambers in the City Hall shall be subject to the policy established on September 25th, 2025, by City Council order, as may be amended from time to time by the City Council. At all times, access to the Council Chambers shall be fully compliant with the American Disabilities Act. Permission to use the Council's subcommittee anteroom outside of time scheduled for meetings of the City Council or its subcommittee shall be delegated by the City Clerk. We didn't put any uses or policy within the ordinance. That's all outside in the allowable uses policy that was reviewed by the city solicitor, by HR, and by the City Clerk as well. In summary, the five allowable uses are events or other meetings approved by the Office of the Mayor, the Election Department pre-election and Election Day overflow work, Public safety swearing-in, and our special citation ceremonies. City staff celebrations or events requested by HR, and weddings performed by the Salem City Clerk Office Justice of the Peace see additional policy. So that's really kind of the high level of the two pieces that were voted on to recommend for approval by this full body, the ordinance edit language that was just discussed, as well as approval of the usage for scheduling, and rules for council chamber. #470 (#299 of 2024, ##287 of 285, #470A) – WEDDINGS AT CITY HALL Councillor Varela offered the following report for the Committee on Government Services co-posted with the Committee of the Whole. It was voted to accept the report and adopt the recommendation. The Committee on Government Services co-posted with the Committee of the Whole to whom it was referred the matter of Weddings at City Hall has considered said matter and would recommend that the attached order regarding a policy for weddings held in the Council Chambers be adopted.  19 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 25, 2025 REGULAR MEETING #470A – POLICY ON WEDDINGS IN COUNCIL CHAMBERS ORDERED: That Wedding ceremonies may be performed in the City Council Chambers by the City Clerk and Assistant City Clerk when such ceremonies are unable to occur in the office of the City Clerk and are subject to the following rules: 1. Wedding parties, including the wedding couple, guests and photographers, shall not exceed eight (8) persons. 2. Doors on both sides of the Chambers must remain open and stanchion(s) placed from the entrance (Mayor’s office side) to the first council desk, thereby creating a clear path through the Chambers. This shall create an ADA accessible path from the Mayor’s office to the restrooms and elevator. Staff and members of the public shall be free to travel through the chambers on this path during any ceremony. Wedding ceremonies must take place on the south side of council chambers. Ceremonies shall be conducted in a manner that preserves unobstructed access to all doors, public pathways, and restrooms. 3. No person or thing (i.e. guests, photographers, tripods) may block the double doors where the ceremony takes place. The doors on either side may not be obstructed. 4. No decorations, cake, champagne, confetti, or rice may be used in the Chambers or on the City Hall inside or outside stairs. 5. Since City Hall is a place of business, loud noise must be kept to a minimum during office hours. At the end of a ceremony clapping is expected, but ceremony guests must refrain from yelling, whistling, ringing of bells, etc. 6. Due to the antique furniture and expensive audio and video equipment in Chambers, care must be taken by ceremony participants to avoid damage. 7. No pets are allowed, except service animals. 8. Guests should not arrive more than 15 minutes before the ceremony and must not block hallway access. Guests may wait quietly inside the Council Chambers until the ceremony begins. Once ceremony is over, guests are expected to leave Council Chambers. 9. The wedding couple must check in to Room 3 approximately 15 minutes before the ceremony to review the marriage license. 10. Wedding ceremonies shall not exceed 30 minutes in time, with at least 15 minutes in between each scheduled wedding. Matter carries 5-0. 20 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 25, 2025 REGULAR MEETING 11. Guests must abide by all rules applicable to city offices. The city clerk is responsible for ensuring compliance with the policy And may take appropriate action if rules are not followed. Endorsed by the City Council on _____________________________ Councillor Varela stated the number of persons allowed in City Hall during a Wedding. We had a long discussion on that and we came to 8 persons. The wedding couple must check into Room 3 approximately 15 minutes before the ceremony. We did add, the length of time for a wedding takes place is 30 minutes and 15 minutes between weddings. That was one amendment we made to this. And added Guests must abide by all rules applicable to the city offices. And replacing #10 with the City Clerk is responsible for ensuring compliance with the policy and may take appropriate action if the rules are not followed. So that is going to be another amendment to the wedding policy. And #2 location of ceremonies shall be within the south side of chambers that are delineated by the stanchions that were in place that we discussed tonight. So with that, I feel confident that we have a wedding policy that's clearly expressed and written out, so that not only do the wedding parties that come here in Salem… to Salem City Hall Council Chambers understand the rules. And rescind #206 (not in front of them so will die at end of year) Councillor Stott added that there was one other addition that we put into the policy under #8, once the ceremony is over, guests are expected to leave the council chambers. I would also like to note that weddings are just inherently different than the other allowable uses that we have noted in our new Council Chamber policy. They are just by nature, a private event, and make it a little more awkward for people to walk through. They also could be a little loud, but I will also say other events that are held in council chambers can also make a lot of noise and also be disruptive, so this is not a call-out that weddings are a problem in council chambers, this is just a call-out that these are additional guidelines that you can provide to the public to help level set expectations of when they come into council chambers that they can enjoy this beautiful room, but it is not a function hall. It's a place of business. And I hope all of the allowable uses that we are granting, within this evening for chambers, also follow the basic level of respect in that regard as well.  21 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 25, 2025 REGULAR MEETING #471 – (#318 & #383) – USE OF COUNCIL CHAMBERS AND ANTE ROOM TO CITY CLERK AFTER APPROVAL OF CITY COUNCIL PRESIDENT Councillor Varela offered the following report for the Committee on Government Services co-posted with the Committee of the Whole. It was voted to accept the report and adopt the recommendation. The Committee on Government Services co-posted with the Committee of the Whole to whom it was referred the matter of City Council to delegate authority to grant permission for the use of City Council Chambers and Ante Room to the City Clerk after approval of the City Council President has considered said matter and would recommend that the matter be discharged. #472 – CPA FUNDING IN THE AMOUNT OF $9,350.00 FOR RESTORATION OF CITY HALL ENTRANCE DOORS The following communication from Patti Kelleher, Preservation Planner, recommending Community Preservation Act (CPA) funding for City Hall Entrance Doors Restorations in the amount of $9,350.00 from the CPA fund balance was adopted. #473 – PETITION FROM NATIONAL GRID AND VERIZON TO INSTALL 1 JOINTLY OWNED POLE – FRANKLIN STREET A hearing was ordered on October 9, 2025 for a Petition from National Grid and Verizon to install 1 Jointly Owned Pole in front of 9 Franklin Street. #474 – B&S ROAD RACE ON AND USE OF CITY STREETS ON OCTOBER 18, 2025 – DEVILS CHASE/CREEPY CLOWN The request from B&S Fitness to hold Devils Chase / Creepy Clown Road Race and use of city streets on October 18, 2025, from 8AM - 11AM was granted with the conditions to cleaning up the cups at the water stations and other trash and bringing extra trash cans to the Willows. #475 – BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB ROAD RACE AND USE OF CITY STREETS 0N NOVEMBER 27, 2025 - WILD TURKEY RUN The request from Boys & Girls Club of Greater Salem to hold Wild Turkey 5 Mile Run Road Race and use of city streets on November 27, 2025, from 8AM - 10AM was granted. 22 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 25, 2025 REGULAR MEETING #476 – YUKAN SPORTS ROAD RACE AND USE OF CITY STREETS ON APRIL 12, 2026 The request from YuKan Sports, LLC to hold Marblehead Half Marathon Road Race and use of city streets on April 12, 2026, from 9AM - 12PM was granted. #477 – BLOCK PARTY – FOWLER STREET The petition from the Residents on Fowler St. to hold a Block Party at Fowler St and North Pine St. October 11, 2025, from 2PM - 6pm, with a rain date of October 12, 2025 was granted. #478 – REQUEST FROM J.J. PHELAN TO WORK SUNDAYS AND SELECT HOLIDAYS FOR THE SALEM WILLOWS PHASE II PARK RENOVATION PROJECT Request from J.J. Phelan & Son Co., Inc. for Authorization to perform Sunday work and select fall 2025 holidays for the Salem Willows, Phase II Park Renovation Project was granted with conditions that no Sunday work begin until after October 25, 2025 and no work to be done on Indigenous People’s Day. (see letter on file at City Clerk’s office during normal business hours.) #479 - #481 – THE FOLLOWING LICENSE APPLICATIONS The Following License Applications were granted. PUBLIC GUIDES: BRIAN SOLLOSY 11 CENTRAL STREET MANCHESTER GLENN DAVIS 27 WISTERIA STREET #4 SALEM TIMOTHY LILLEY 20 WASHBAN AVE #1 CAMBRIDGE DANIEL WEINER 147 TRAILSIDE WAY ASHLAND MATTHEW MACKINNON 45 HAYES AVE BEVERLY ALAN ESTES 61 MIDDLE STREET NEWBURYPORT CHRISTOPHER SCHULTZ 60 OLD SAILORS WAY SOUTH DENNIS JOYA STELLA 188 WASHINGTON STREET LYNN PETER V DARKMOOR 233 KELTON STREET ALLSTON EMILY LEWIS 65 WASHINGTON ST #311 SALEM ALYSSA COSTA 89 REED ROAD WESTPORT RAYMOND ROBERGE 142 ASH STREET MANCHESTER, NH ALEXANDRA BRADLEY 18 SUMMIT AVE SOMERVILLE TOBIN FIELD 1 LORING AVE SALEM SOPHIA BEREAUD 77 WALKER RD SWAMPSCOTT  23 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 25, 2025 REGULAR MEETING TAXI OPERATORS: Robert Polo 28 Buena Vista Ave., Salem Jose Manuel Suriel 56 Dow St, Apt 50, Salem Hector M. Toribio 7 Randall St. Apt 1, Salem Moises Zapata 30 Story Ave, Beverly Guerrero Edward R. Batista 12 Cherry St. Apt. 2, Salem Ramon' Jesus Gomez Lugo 8 Endicott St., Peabody Armelis Rayes Abreu 21 Palmer St #2, Salem Reynaldo Martinez 34 Hollingsworth St., Lynn VEHICLE FOR HIRE - OPERATORS ONLY: STEPHEN SPIRITO 444 LYNN BROADWAY KATHLEEN KRAEMER 17 GROVE SALEM ST. ELIZABETH V. KAULER 28 GOODHUE ST. UNIT SALEM 308, PETER J. 28 GOODHUE ST. UNIT SALEM HARRINGTON 308, NELITA BOGA 16 MARGIN ST PEABODY #482 - #484 - CLAIMS The Following Claims were referred to the Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs. Beth Adams 189 Aspen Road Swampscott Antonio Migliore 195 Union Street Apt 1 Lynn Michael Dalton 14 Eagan Place Peabody #485 - DRAINLAYER/CONTRACT OPERATOR LICENSE APPLICATIONS The Following Drainlayer/Contract Operator Licenses were granted. Early Contractors Inc 50 South Main Street Bradford United Civil Inc 240 Newbury Street Danvers 24 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 25, 2025 REGULAR MEETING #486 – BONDS The Following Bonds were referred to the Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs and returned approved. DRAINLAYERS: Early Contractors Inc50 South Main StreetBradford United Civil Inc 240 Newbury Street Danvers (#361) - SECOND PASSAGE TO AMEND AN ORDINANCE RELATIVE TO CH. 22-6 NOISE CONTROL ON THE ESSEX STREET PEDESTRIAN MALL The Second Passage of the following ordinance to amend an ordinance relative to Ch. 22- 6 Noise Control on the Essex Street Pedestrian Mall was adopted for second passage as amended sections (2) and (3) were amended to increase the amplification zones. Original: In the year Two Thousand and Twenty-Five An Ordinance to amend an Ordinance relative to Chapter 22 – Noise Be it Ordained by the City Council of Salem, as follows: Section I. Section 22-6. - Special regulations relative to the Essex Street Pedestrian Mall and adjacent streets and sidewalks of Chapter 22 Noise Control is hereby amended by a) deleting sections (b)(1), (b)(2) and (b)(3) in their entirety and replacing them with the following: " (1) Exceeding 68 decibels between the hours of 8 p.m. and 10:00 a.m. upon the streets, sidewalks and public ways within the entirety of the Essex Street Mall and Adjacent Streets and Sidewalks; (2) Exceeding 72 decibels between the hours of 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. upon the streets and sidewalks between and including 181 and 198 Essex Street and between and including 11 Central Street and Essex Street; 208 and 259 Essex Street, 173 and 179 Essex Street, 125 and 133 Essex Street, 13 Central Street and Charter Street, 93 and 155 Washington Street, Cervoni Walkway, and Derby Square from Essex Street to 13 Derby Square.  25 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 25, 2025 REGULAR MEETING Mall exceeds the decibel level set forth in sections (b )(2) and (b )(3) for a street or sidewalk, as determined by a police officer or a health, licensing or building official or their designees, the applicable decibel level for the street or sidewalk shall be ten decibels above the ambient noise level. Ambient noise shall mean the background noise other than the sound, such as a theatrical performance, being monitored." c) deleting Sec. 22-6 (e) in its entirety. Section II. This Ordinance shall take effect as provided by City Charter As Amended: In the year Two Thousand and Twenty-Five An Ordinance to amend an Ordinance relative to Chapter 22 – Noise Be it Ordained by the City Council of Salem, as follows: Section I. Section 22-6. - Special regulations relative to the Essex Street Pedestrian Mall and adjacent streets and sidewalks of Chapter 22 Noise Control is hereby amended by a) deleting sections (b)(1), (b)(2) and (b)(3) in their entirety and replacing them with the following: " (1) Exceeding 68 decibels between the hours of 8 p.m. and 10:00 a.m. upon the streets, sidewalks and public ways within the entirety of the Essex Street Mall and Adjacent Streets and Sidewalks; (2) Exceeding 72 decibels between the hours of 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. upon the streets and sidewalks between and including 173 and 259 Essex Street; between and including 11 Central Street and Essex Street; 125 and 133 Essex Street, 13 Central Street and Charter Street, Cervoni Walkway, and Derby Square from Essex Street to 13 Derby Square. (3) Exceeding 79 decibels between the hours of 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. between and including 137 and 161 Essex Street, 69 Washington Street and 99 Washington Street, 112 Washington Street and 154 Washington Street and 15 Derby Square and Front Street. b) adding within section (b) a new last paragraph as follows: 26 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 25, 2025 REGULAR MEETING "When the ambient noise level upon a street or sidewalk within the Essex Street Pedestrian Mall exceeds the decibel level set forth in sections (b )(2) and (b )(3) for a street or sidewalk, as determined by a police officer or a health, licensing or building official or their designees, the applicable decibel level for the street or sidewalk shall be ten decibels above the ambient noise level. Ambient noise shall mean the background noise other than the sound, such as a theatrical performance, being monitored." c) deleting Sec. 22-6 (e) in its entirety. Section II. This Ordinance shall take effect as provided by City Charter. (#377) – ZONING ORDINANCE – MULTIFAMILY PARKING The Second Passage of the following Zoning Ordinance relative to Multifamily Parking was adopted for second and final passage by two roll call votes. The first roll call vote was for adoption of Sections 5.4.3, 9.5.3 and 9.5.6. These sections required a 2/3 vote. The roll call vote for these sections were adopted by 10 yeas, 1 nay and 0 absent. Councillor Jerzylo was recorded in the negative. The remaining sections only required a majority vote due to the Housing Choice Act. The roll call vote for these sections were adopted by 10 yeas, 1 nay and 0 absent. An Ordinance to amend the City of Salem Zoning Ordinance. Section I. Amend Section 5.1.8 Table of Required Parking Spaces by a. Delete the following sentence: "In R3 Districts, the restriction on off-street parking will not apply to age restricted housing projects built under the jurisdiction of the Salem Housing Authority and financed by a federal or state subsidy." b. Deleting the phrase "Dwellings (RC, Rl, R2. R3)" in the first row of the table and replacing it with the phrase "Dwellings, single-family; Dwellings, two-family;" c. Adding a second row to the table as follows: I "Dwellings, multifamily" I None Section II. Amend Section 5.1.9 Central Development (B5) District by deleting Section 5.1.9.2 in its entirety and replacing it with the sentence "New residential dwelling uses in the B5 District shall provide parking in accordance with Section § 5.1.8."  27 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 25, 2025 REGULAR MEETING Section III. Amend Section 5.4.3 Mandatory Provision of Affordable Units by a. Deleting Section I.a. in its entirety and replacing it with the sentence "In any development subject to this Section§ 5.4, at least ten (10) percent of the dwelling units shall be Affordable Housing Units." b. Deleting the word "DHCD's" in Section § 5.4.3.c.ii. and replacing it with "the Department of Housing and Community Development's (DHCD)" c. Deleting the phrase "most current" from the second paragraph of Section 4. d. Deleting the phrase "the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD)" from the second paragraph of Section 4. e. Inserting the sentence "The payment shall be equal to the total development cost limit in the most recent Qualified Allocation Plan in which a development cost limit is defined, adjusted for inflation to the present year." at end of the second paragraph of Section 4. Section IV. Amend Section 5.4.4 Housing Bonus and Parking Reduction by a. Deleting the phrase "and Parking Reduction" from the section title. b. Deleting the first sentence of the section. c. Deleting the title of Section 1, "Housing Bonus." d. Inserting the phrase "with the exception of those obtaining a special permit pursuant to Section 5.4.3.2," following the phrase "Developments in compliance with the requirements of this Section§ 5.4" in the second paragraph of the section. e. Deleting Section 2 Parking Reduction in its entirety. Section V. Amend Section 6.11.8 Parking and Loading by a. Inserting the sentence "For multifamily dwelling units, refer to Section§ 5.1." at the beginning of the section. b. Deleting the phrase "For new residential dwelling uses" in the first paragraph and replacing it with "For all other new residential dwelling uses". Section VI. Amend Section 7.1.2 Standards by deleting Section 6 in its entirety and replacing it with "Off-street parking shall be provided in accordance with Section § 5.1. No parking space shall reduce the effective width of the driveway providing access to more than one (I) dwelling unit to 1ess than sixteen (16) feet." 28 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 25, 2025 REGULAR MEETING Section VII. Amend Section 8.4.9 Parking Requirements by a. Deleting Section 4.a. in its entirety and replacing it with the sentence "For artist lofts and living space as described in Section§ 8.4.5, one (1) space per unit for patrons of artist spaces with a studio where items are sold." b. Deleting Section 4.b. in its entirety and replacing it with the sentence "All other uses in the NRCC shall follow the parking requirements as listed in this Zoning Ordinance." c. Delete Section 4.c. Section VIII. Amend Section 8.7.8.4 Development Standards. Parking Standards by deleting section B.i in its entirety and replacing it with the text "For multifamily dwellings, refer to Section § 5.1. All other new residential uses shall have 1.0 spaces per unit." Section IX. Amend Section 9.5.3 Application by a. Inserting the phrase "and a Transportation Demand Management Plan" following the phrase "as requested" in the first paragraph. Section X. Amend Section 9.5.6 Review Criteria by deleting Section I in its entirety and replacing it with "Adequacy of parking facilities, number of parking spaces proposed for each development, and adequacy of the Transportation Demand Management Plan;". Section XI. This Ordinance shall take effect as provided by City Charter. (#432) – SECOND PASSAGE – ORDINANCE AMENDING CH. 12 SEC. 170 - FEE FOR TELECOMMUNICATION ATTACMENTS The following ordinance to amend an ordinance relative to Ch. 12 Sec. 170 Fee for Telecommunication attachments in the right-of-way and temporary placement of equipment Action Contemplated was adopted for second and final passage. An Ordinance to amend an Ordinance relative to Electricity Be it ordained by the City Council of the City of Salem, as follows: Section 1. Sec. 12-170. Fee for telecommunications attachments in the right-of-way is hereby amended by deleting this section in its entirety and replacing it with the following:  29 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 25, 2025 REGULAR MEETING “Sec. 12-170 Fee for telecommunication attachments in right-of-way and temporary placement of equipment. Applicants seeking a grant of location in association with telecommunications attachments to poles within the right-of-way, portable cellular phone tower or temporary communication facility for the purpose of enhancing cellular telecommunications shall, at the time of filing, pay a $500.00 application fee to cover the costs of the interdepartmental review as may be required. This fee shall be in addition to any rental payments for telecommunications attachments to poles or on property owned by the city.” Section 2. This ordinance shall take effect as provided by city charter. (#433) - SECOND PASSAGE OF AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND TRAFFIC CH. 42 SEC. 43 PROHIBITING TRUCK DELIVERIES ON ESSEX ST. PEDESTRIAN MALL The Second Passage of the following ordinance to amend Traffic Ch. 42 Sec. 43 prohibiting Truck Deliveries on Essex St. Pedestrian Mall was adopted for second and final passage. An Ordinance relative to Traffic Be it ordained by the City Council of the City of Salem, as follows: Section 1. Section 43 of Article IV of the Ordinance Relative to Traffic is hereby amended by striking out the following: D. Essex Street Mall – No Truck deliveries from 11:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M. Passenger vehicles prohibited. $20.00 fine violation of DPW Ch. 85 S. 2. (6/7/79 DPW 5-1623; Ord. of 12-6-2007; Ord. of 10-28-10, §§ 1, III) And inserting in its place the following: D. Essex Street Mall – No truck deliveries from 10:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M. Passenger vehicles prohibited. Punishable by a $50.00 fine pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 90, Section 16. Section 2. This ordinance shall take effect as provided by City Charter. 30 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 25, 2025 REGULAR MEETING (#439) - SECOND PASSAGE OF AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND AN ORDINANCE RELATIVE TO CH. 2-272 - CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS The second passage of the following Ordinance to amend an Ordinance relative to Ch. 2- 272 - City Council Meetings. An Ordinance to amend an Ordinance relative to regular City Council meetings Be it ordained by the City Council of the City of Salem, as follows: Section I. Chapter 2, Sec. 2-272. Regular meetings is hereby amended by deleting this section in its entirety and replacing it with the following: “Sec. 2-272. Regular meetings. Regular meetings of the City Council shall be held at 7:00 p.m. on the second and fourth Thursdays of each month except the months of July and August when there shall be one regular meeting each month, with the meeting date set by Council President prior to the first day of February each calendar year.” Section II. This Ordinance shall take effect as provided by City Charter. Councillor Hapworth stated he reached out to the Mayor today just to ask about the Election Commission. The Mayor said we would not have an election commission up and running by the September election next year. So I think the vacations will probably be off the table for 3 weeks in August and this would push us into another week, with a council or regular council meeting here. Understanding we may have a special meeting, or a need for a special meeting. I think it would be my preference here, probably, to amend the language, here to allow for a regular meeting in July no meeting in August, with the exception of the potential for a special meeting. And then next year, when we have an election commission up and running, which should be for the November election of next year, rewrite the ordinance to come back in and, and have our two regular meetings, one in July, one in August. So, the amendment that I would make would be to strike the language around July and August and say. “Except the months of July and August. In July, there shall be one regular meeting, with the meeting date set by the Council President prior to the first day of February each calendar year. In August, no regular meetings shall be scheduled, though special meetings may be called in accordance with the Charter.” Councillor Harvey seconded the motion. Councillor Morsillo stated she does not agree with this. There are 4 weeks in August and not sure why an election next year would get in the way of planning a meeting. The meeting date would be set in the beginning of the year, when the election schedule is known. The whole point of this is to get away from these huge gaps and the need to create a special meeting in which case, no one can plan their summer vacation. So I'm not sure why this got tied up with the Election Commission. This is not Election Commission related at all.  31 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 25, 2025 REGULAR MEETING Councillor Hapworth stated that it is typical before an election, it is all hands on deck, and three weeks prior to the election are blocked off that no one can take vacations. Can’t push all of that into the month of July. I'm completely on board with everything that we have in here moving forward, I just think that needs to happen after we have an election commission. Councillor Merkel was also hoping we would have an election commission, in place as well. My understanding is that there's 3 weeks where vacations aren't allowed because of the election season going on, so it would be more difficult than in the one week left to try to have a meeting, and then more vacation time wouldn't be taken. This is why I'm really hoping we get an election commission. But I'm willing to continue hearing about this discussion tonight. Councillor Stott stated this was to help everybody in the clerk’s office schedule, the entire city staff that needs to put items in front of us, and not in a rushed manner, and not us feeling rushed. Anyway, it's all about scheduling, efficiency, transparency and continuing the running of city business. That is the intent. The election commission would be nice, right? Because that will separate the two, and it will provide different schedules. If we can't find a meeting date in the month of July and the month of October, then come in front of us during budget season for additional staff. Councillor Cohen stated I brought up at the last meeting, when this came before us, that the Bertini Project, was ready to open, and couldn't open on time, even though they had people, especially some of the affordable units, were ready to go, because National Grid and Comcast couldn't get their petition, before us until September. It actually delayed people living in the apartments that they had secured for 3 weeks. Councillor Prosniewski stated he is in agreement with Councillor Hapworth. It's not saying that we will not have a meeting in August. I think we've always had meetings in August, because we've had to have meetings in August. It's just that if we have no council business in August, it gives the city staff the opportunity to be able to plan their vacations. It's not saying that we can't have one. On Councillor Hapworth’s amendment, Councillor Varela requested a roll call vote. The amendment did not carry by a roll call vote of 4 yeas, 7 nays and 0 absent. Councillors Jerzylo, Harvey, Hapworth, and Prosniewski were recording in the affirmative and Councillors Watson-Felt, Varela, Stott, Morsillo, Merkl, Davis, and Cohen were recorded in the negative. On the original motion it was adopted for second passage. Councillor Varela motion for immediate reconsideration was denied. 32 CITY OF SALEM SEPTEMBER 25, 2025 REGULAR MEETING (#440) - SECOND PASSAGE OF AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND AN ORDINANCE RELATIVE TO CH. 43-12 - TREES - COMPOSITION AND MEETINGS The Second Passage of the following ordinance to amend an Ordinance relative to Ch. 43- 12 - Trees - Composition and Meetings was adopted for second and final passage. An Ordinance to amend an Ordinance relative to Ch. 43-12 – Trees - Composition and Meetings Be it ordained by the City Council of the City of Salem as follows: Section I. Chapter 43, Section 12 Composition and Meetings (a) shall be amended by deleting the following: (3) One member who is a licensed landscape architect or certified arborist appointed by majority vote of the City Council; (4) One member of the general public and one alternate of the general public to be appointed by majority vote of the City Council; (5) One member who is a licensed landscape architect or certified arborist appointed by the mayor, confirmed by majority vote of the city council; (6) One member of the general public and One alternate of the general public to be appointed by the mayor, confirmed by majority vote of the city council; And inserting the following: (3) Two members who are licensed landscape architects or certified arborists appointed by the Mayor, confirmed by majority vote of the City Council; (4) Two members of the general public and two alternates of the general public to be appointed by the Mayor, confirmed by majority vote of the City Council; And the remaining section shall be renumbered. Section II. This Ordinance shall take effect as provided by City Charter. On the motion of Councillor Morsillo , the meeting adjourned at 9:35 P.M. ATTEST: ILENE SIMONS CITY CLERK